What do you think?
Rate this book
Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine's Day
A speeding ticket. A small-town cop. A Valentine’s Day she swore she’d skip.
I came back to my hometown of Ashen Mills, Texas to skip Valentine’s Day—nothing more. After getting laid off and forced to move home, my plan was hide in my childhood bedroom, scroll job listings I wasn’t qualified for, and avoid anything remotely heart-shaped.
That plan derails the moment I meet Officer Rhett Lawson—annoyingly handsome, endlessly patient, and far too interested in a woman who came home to hide from love. To my surprise, he keeps showing up everywhere. To my confusion, I keep letting him.
Between my mom roping me into the Hearts and Hands nursing-home event, losing questionable bets involving mechanical bulls, baking cookies in Rhett’s kitchen, and dodging glitter explosions, I find myself caught in a romance I never asked for—with a cop who refuses to give up on my guarded heart.
But as I get to know the real Rhett Lawson, it becomes clear that maybe I'm not running from love...maybe I'm running from the kind of love I've been too scared to believe I deserve.
Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine's Day is a sweet, small-town Christian romance filled with faith, laughter, and swoon-worthy moments. Perfect for readers who love patient heroes, second chances, grumpy-sunshine banter, and stories where love acts first—even when the feelings haven't caught up yet.
I came back to my hometown of Ashen Mills, Texas to skip Valentine’s Day—nothing more. After getting laid off and forced to move home, my plan was hide in my childhood bedroom, scroll job listings I wasn’t qualified for, and avoid anything remotely heart-shaped.
That plan derails the moment I meet Officer Rhett Lawson—annoyingly handsome, endlessly patient, and far too interested in a woman who came home to hide from love. To my surprise, he keeps showing up everywhere. To my confusion, I keep letting him.
Between my mom roping me into the Hearts and Hands nursing-home event, losing questionable bets involving mechanical bulls, baking cookies in Rhett’s kitchen, and dodging glitter explosions, I find myself caught in a romance I never asked for—with a cop who refuses to give up on my guarded heart.
But as I get to know the real Rhett Lawson, it becomes clear that maybe I'm not running from love...maybe I'm running from the kind of love I've been too scared to believe I deserve.
Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine's Day is a sweet, small-town Christian romance filled with faith, laughter, and swoon-worthy moments. Perfect for readers who love patient heroes, second chances, grumpy-sunshine banter, and stories where love acts first—even when the feelings haven't caught up yet.
162 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2026
19 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Currently reading
February 10, 2026
February 3, 2026
This was such a cute novella! I enjoyed reading about Gabby and Rhett! This story showcased God’s love in such a beautiful way. Rhett was DOWN BAD for Gabby and he made every effort possible to show that he wasn’t going to leave her! I understood why Gabby felt that she was unworthy of love and I could totally relate to that! Yet, God shows His love in ways we wouldn’t even expect. ❤️🥰 Loved everything about this story! Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review this e-ARC!
February 3, 2026
Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine’s Day
by Amber Nicole
Book Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Content Rating: Kisses only
Summary:
After being fired from her job, Gabby Wallace returns to her home town of Ashen Mills to regroup and to skip Valentine’s Day. Enter Rhett Lawson, a cop who moved to Ashen Mills to escape the noise and danger of the big city. Smitten and determined, Rhett with God’s help plans to show Gabby that she’s worthy of love exactly as she is, even if it takes all his patience, prayers, and love for the holiday to show her.
Review:
This was the cutest novella! It was sweet, easy to read, and a representation of what’s so good about romance books. Gabby was very relatable and at times I felt like I was reading about myself. The struggle to see your worth and wanting to be loved was so real. Her reflex to push someone who could genuinely love her away was felt in my soul. Rhett was the perfect person to come through and show her the love she deserved. He was down bad (which is gonna get me every time) and the way he prayed for her was so beautiful and selfless. More than wanting to be with her, he wanted her to feel loved and wanted, even if it was without him. Typically with insta love you have to be able to suspend your disbelief some, but even with how little time there was between the beginning and the end of the book, Amber Nicole’s writing made it feel as natural as a slow burn. Overall, I just adored Rhett and Gabby and this was another enjoyable read from Amber Nicole!
Thank you to Amber Nicole for allowing me to read and review this ARC!
by Amber Nicole
Book Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Content Rating: Kisses only
Summary:
After being fired from her job, Gabby Wallace returns to her home town of Ashen Mills to regroup and to skip Valentine’s Day. Enter Rhett Lawson, a cop who moved to Ashen Mills to escape the noise and danger of the big city. Smitten and determined, Rhett with God’s help plans to show Gabby that she’s worthy of love exactly as she is, even if it takes all his patience, prayers, and love for the holiday to show her.
Review:
This was the cutest novella! It was sweet, easy to read, and a representation of what’s so good about romance books. Gabby was very relatable and at times I felt like I was reading about myself. The struggle to see your worth and wanting to be loved was so real. Her reflex to push someone who could genuinely love her away was felt in my soul. Rhett was the perfect person to come through and show her the love she deserved. He was down bad (which is gonna get me every time) and the way he prayed for her was so beautiful and selfless. More than wanting to be with her, he wanted her to feel loved and wanted, even if it was without him. Typically with insta love you have to be able to suspend your disbelief some, but even with how little time there was between the beginning and the end of the book, Amber Nicole’s writing made it feel as natural as a slow burn. Overall, I just adored Rhett and Gabby and this was another enjoyable read from Amber Nicole!
Thank you to Amber Nicole for allowing me to read and review this ARC!
Read
January 31, 2026Oh my goodness! I am so glad that Amber Nicole made the switch to writing Christian romance because THIS is the exact type of faith-filled romance that I absolute adore and need more of. Gabby and Rhett's story was packed full of swoon worthy moments while also pointing unapologetically back to Jesus. When he prays for her? My goodness, my heart! But truly, I loved these two right from their adorable meet cute. They had a great banter, and the chemistry was flying off the pages. It was such a sweet romance, and one that reminds us of what love truly is. This may be a shorter read as a novella, but it's not short on romance or faith and I absolutely could not get enough. If you love Christian romance, this is one not to be missed!
Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine's Day is a Christian romance with kisses only and no language. It is part of the Valentine's Ever After series. This is a multi-author series of Valentine's Day novellas that can be enjoyed as standalones or in any order.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine's Day is a Christian romance with kisses only and no language. It is part of the Valentine's Ever After series. This is a multi-author series of Valentine's Day novellas that can be enjoyed as standalones or in any order.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
February 1, 2026
This was such an easy book to read. It actually got me hooked the moment I turned to page one. I love the dual POV from Gabby and Rhett and each chapter being each day leading up to Valentine’s Day. I can definitely see myself in Gabby, wanting to skip Valentine’s Day due to the hurt she has been having. Building up those walls so people don’t love her and she doesn’t opened up at all. I understand her completely!
Rhett being the one to show her that love can be easy, even if it’s difficult thing to do. The dynamic both Gabby and Rhett had is amazing. I love the opposites attract relationship they have with each other. The constant joking, snarky playful comments and the police jokes. Gosh there were so many!
I love when the pastor preached about love in 1 John 4. “Love is Jesus-shaped.” Ooo that was so good to read! I love how it’s worded like that. You get to see the love Jesus had for others, kinda like how Rhett is loving Gabby. She needed to see it and Jesus sent Rhett to do it. I’m hoping to explore Rhett and Gabby’s past more. Why Rhett moved away from the city. Why Gabby had her walls put up. I want to go deeper with them two more.
I love the book! Amazing writing. Great plot. I love the small town vibes it was giving! This book is a great read for Valentine’s Day, or if you just want an easy read! :))
Rhett being the one to show her that love can be easy, even if it’s difficult thing to do. The dynamic both Gabby and Rhett had is amazing. I love the opposites attract relationship they have with each other. The constant joking, snarky playful comments and the police jokes. Gosh there were so many!
I love when the pastor preached about love in 1 John 4. “Love is Jesus-shaped.” Ooo that was so good to read! I love how it’s worded like that. You get to see the love Jesus had for others, kinda like how Rhett is loving Gabby. She needed to see it and Jesus sent Rhett to do it. I’m hoping to explore Rhett and Gabby’s past more. Why Rhett moved away from the city. Why Gabby had her walls put up. I want to go deeper with them two more.
I love the book! Amazing writing. Great plot. I love the small town vibes it was giving! This book is a great read for Valentine’s Day, or if you just want an easy read! :))
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2026
I read this in one sitting and immediately wished it was longer. I wasn’t ready to leave Gabby’s world at all.
I already love how Amber Nicole writes Christian romance, and this story is exactly why. Her writing feels warm, intentional, and deeply rooted in faith without ever being forced. Watching Gabby actively choose to skip Valentine’s Day while quietly wrestling with her own fears around love felt so real and relatable. Her internal struggle, wanting connection but also wanting to protect her heart, it was written with just so much care and was beyond relatable.
Rhett was such a standout for me. I loved how steady and thoughtful he was! How he showed up consistently, and how his actions spoke louder than words. Their connection felt purposeful, grounded, and centered on faith, which made their relationship feel meaningful and hit so much harder even in such a short amount of time. The way prayer, trust in God’s timing, and emotional honesty were woven into the story made it feel comforting and sincere.
I genuinely love this author and will read anything she writes!!!! The stories are just so relatable and I can see myself and my own faith journey in them. I just really wanted more time with these characters because I enjoyed them so much. If you love clean, faith-based romance with heart, intention, and emotional depth, this one is a must-read!!
I already love how Amber Nicole writes Christian romance, and this story is exactly why. Her writing feels warm, intentional, and deeply rooted in faith without ever being forced. Watching Gabby actively choose to skip Valentine’s Day while quietly wrestling with her own fears around love felt so real and relatable. Her internal struggle, wanting connection but also wanting to protect her heart, it was written with just so much care and was beyond relatable.
Rhett was such a standout for me. I loved how steady and thoughtful he was! How he showed up consistently, and how his actions spoke louder than words. Their connection felt purposeful, grounded, and centered on faith, which made their relationship feel meaningful and hit so much harder even in such a short amount of time. The way prayer, trust in God’s timing, and emotional honesty were woven into the story made it feel comforting and sincere.
I genuinely love this author and will read anything she writes!!!! The stories are just so relatable and I can see myself and my own faith journey in them. I just really wanted more time with these characters because I enjoyed them so much. If you love clean, faith-based romance with heart, intention, and emotional depth, this one is a must-read!!
February 7, 2026
✨ 4.5⭐️ Read ✨
This story is everything I love about a soft, meaningful Valentine’s romance. It’s tender, honest, and centered on healing, faith, and learning to love again—both yourself and someone else. Gabby’s journey back home isn’t just about romance… it’s about rediscovering who she’s becoming and what she truly deserves. 🥹✨
One of my favorite parts was how this book shows that love isn’t just about butterflies—it’s about showing up, choosing each other daily, and staying even when it’s hard. That quiet, steady devotion made this story feel so real and so beautiful. 💞
And Rhett?? A man who prays, leads with his heart, and puts God first?! Yes please. 🙏💗 His love felt intentional, selfless, and deeply rooted in faith—absolutely swoon-worthy.
Sweet, hopeful, and full of heart, this book had me smiling the whole way through. If you love gentle Christian romance with depth, this one is a must-read. 🫶✨
✨ Tropes ✨
• Grumpy x Sunshine
• Opposites Attract
• He Falls First
• Small Town
• Faith-Based Romance
• Insta Love
This story is everything I love about a soft, meaningful Valentine’s romance. It’s tender, honest, and centered on healing, faith, and learning to love again—both yourself and someone else. Gabby’s journey back home isn’t just about romance… it’s about rediscovering who she’s becoming and what she truly deserves. 🥹✨
One of my favorite parts was how this book shows that love isn’t just about butterflies—it’s about showing up, choosing each other daily, and staying even when it’s hard. That quiet, steady devotion made this story feel so real and so beautiful. 💞
And Rhett?? A man who prays, leads with his heart, and puts God first?! Yes please. 🙏💗 His love felt intentional, selfless, and deeply rooted in faith—absolutely swoon-worthy.
Sweet, hopeful, and full of heart, this book had me smiling the whole way through. If you love gentle Christian romance with depth, this one is a must-read. 🫶✨
✨ Tropes ✨
• Grumpy x Sunshine
• Opposites Attract
• He Falls First
• Small Town
• Faith-Based Romance
• Insta Love
February 1, 2026
✨ ARC Review ✨
Thank you to Amber Nicole for the advanced copy!
Amber Nicole does it again. Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine’s Day had me laughing out loud, giggling and kicking my feet, getting emotional, and fully teary-eyed. This is the perfect rom-com to curl up with for Valentine’s Day.
Amber knows exactly how to make you swoon and smile—but that’s just the beginning. What truly sets this story apart is the deep love of Jesus woven so naturally and beautifully throughout the pages. The sermons and moments of truth stopped me in my tracks and brought tears to my eyes in the best way.
Heartfelt, funny, romantic, and faith-filled, Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine’s Day is a reminder of God’s love wrapped in a charming rom-com package.
📅 Releases February 3rd
💘 You definitely do not want to SKIP this one this Valentine’s Day season.
Thank you to Amber Nicole for the advanced copy!
Amber Nicole does it again. Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine’s Day had me laughing out loud, giggling and kicking my feet, getting emotional, and fully teary-eyed. This is the perfect rom-com to curl up with for Valentine’s Day.
Amber knows exactly how to make you swoon and smile—but that’s just the beginning. What truly sets this story apart is the deep love of Jesus woven so naturally and beautifully throughout the pages. The sermons and moments of truth stopped me in my tracks and brought tears to my eyes in the best way.
Heartfelt, funny, romantic, and faith-filled, Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine’s Day is a reminder of God’s love wrapped in a charming rom-com package.
📅 Releases February 3rd
💘 You definitely do not want to SKIP this one this Valentine’s Day season.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine's Day is adorable with maybe one hang up... if only there was a 3.5.
Gabby, after watching all her friends find their happily ever afters and losing her job, heads back to her hometown to gather her wits. So, in her discontentment with life, she puts up her guard and acts the grump.
Rhett, our neighborhood sunshine cop, really sees her and wants to help her. Which she, of course, is reluctant to. Welcome the playful diaologue and sweet interactions. So cute.
My thing is, I would have liked to see her struggle more with her own attitude through prayer or seeking wisdom from others. Whereas Rhett, on the other hand, felt an instant connection with Gabby and went straight to God with it. He showed his faith much more throughout the book. He wants to make Gabby happy, and he's so sweet.
I enjoyed the book and am thankful to be part of this early review ^^
Gabby, after watching all her friends find their happily ever afters and losing her job, heads back to her hometown to gather her wits. So, in her discontentment with life, she puts up her guard and acts the grump.
Rhett, our neighborhood sunshine cop, really sees her and wants to help her. Which she, of course, is reluctant to. Welcome the playful diaologue and sweet interactions. So cute.
My thing is, I would have liked to see her struggle more with her own attitude through prayer or seeking wisdom from others. Whereas Rhett, on the other hand, felt an instant connection with Gabby and went straight to God with it. He showed his faith much more throughout the book. He wants to make Gabby happy, and he's so sweet.
I enjoyed the book and am thankful to be part of this early review ^^
February 1, 2026
ahh absolutely loved this!!!
the way he continues to pray for her, for whatever God’s plan for him in her life is, just had me in tears 😭
it’s absolutely adorable watching her begin to trust him and watching them both surrender to God!
was so blessed to read this as an arc, and can’t wait to read the rest of the books!!
the way he continues to pray for her, for whatever God’s plan for him in her life is, just had me in tears 😭
it’s absolutely adorable watching her begin to trust him and watching them both surrender to God!
was so blessed to read this as an arc, and can’t wait to read the rest of the books!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Advanced Reader Copy From Author
This book is absolutely perfect for Valentine's Day! I love Gabby and Rhett! You know is a good book when you wish it wasn't over!
My favorite part was the fact that Rhett (MMC) prayed for Gabby every night before bed. It was so sweet and showed such a pure love. Rhett was suxh a great example of a Godly man and how he should love and treat a women.
This book is absolutely perfect for Valentine's Day! I love Gabby and Rhett! You know is a good book when you wish it wasn't over!
My favorite part was the fact that Rhett (MMC) prayed for Gabby every night before bed. It was so sweet and showed such a pure love. Rhett was suxh a great example of a Godly man and how he should love and treat a women.
February 3, 2026
4.5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Author
Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine’s Day is a light-hearted, sweet, faith-based novella that will have you grinning from ear to ear. Gabby is fiery, sharp-witted, and has a reputation for causing a little trouble in her youth. She hides her soft heart behind a shield of sass and sarcasm. Rhett is kind, genuine, and endlessly patient—a total green-flag, golden-retriever MMC. He sees right through Gabby’s walls and decides she’s the good kind of trouble worth chasing.
Rhett and Gabby are downright adorable together—I loved them so much! Their first meeting, along with so many other moments, had me laughing out loud. Their flirty, playful banter paired with Gabby’s clever yet guarded humor is everything. It pulls you right into the story and leaves you eagerly waiting for their next interaction.
Don’t let the length fool you—this novella is full of swoony, heartfelt moments. The way Rhett prays for Gabby each night had my heart overflowing. I also loved how consistently he showed up and how gently he pursued her—he saw past her armor and wasn’t scared off by her prickliness.
If you want a quick read with lots of tender moments that leaves you feeling satisfied, this one fits the bill.
✨Incudes✨
Police Officer /Motorcycle Cop
Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
Golden Retriever MMC
Black Cat FMC
He Falls First
Insta Love
Faith Based Romance
He Prays For Her
Forced Proximity
Matchmaking Momma
Small Town
Favorites
💗Writing tickets and passing notes
💗Bets and bull riding
💗Rhett praying for Gabby each night
💗His flirty banter and her sassy comebacks
💗Farmers Market shopping + first dance
💗Glitter explosion
💗He respects her boundaries but continues to pursue her
💗The Sable + dancing
💗Piggly Wiggly + knight in shining armor
💗Baking cookies 😍
💗Paid in full
💗Hearts and Hands event
💗”Then let me be here.”
💗Love is Jesus-shaped
💗Real love acts first. Chooses first. Feelings catch up later.
💗Valentine’s Day surprises
💗”Let me be the one who stays.”
Thank you Amber Nicole for the gifted ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Rhett and Gabby are downright adorable together—I loved them so much! Their first meeting, along with so many other moments, had me laughing out loud. Their flirty, playful banter paired with Gabby’s clever yet guarded humor is everything. It pulls you right into the story and leaves you eagerly waiting for their next interaction.
Don’t let the length fool you—this novella is full of swoony, heartfelt moments. The way Rhett prays for Gabby each night had my heart overflowing. I also loved how consistently he showed up and how gently he pursued her—he saw past her armor and wasn’t scared off by her prickliness.
If you want a quick read with lots of tender moments that leaves you feeling satisfied, this one fits the bill.
✨Incudes✨
Police Officer /Motorcycle Cop
Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
Golden Retriever MMC
Black Cat FMC
He Falls First
Insta Love
Faith Based Romance
He Prays For Her
Forced Proximity
Matchmaking Momma
Small Town
Favorites
💗Writing tickets and passing notes
💗Bets and bull riding
💗Rhett praying for Gabby each night
💗His flirty banter and her sassy comebacks
💗Farmers Market shopping + first dance
💗Glitter explosion
💗He respects her boundaries but continues to pursue her
💗The Sable + dancing
💗Piggly Wiggly + knight in shining armor
💗Baking cookies 😍
💗Paid in full
💗Hearts and Hands event
💗”Then let me be here.”
💗Love is Jesus-shaped
💗Real love acts first. Chooses first. Feelings catch up later.
💗Valentine’s Day surprises
💗”Let me be the one who stays.”
Thank you Amber Nicole for the gifted ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Amber Nicole NEVER misses! I absolutely LOVED Rhett and Gabby! They were PRECIOUS and this story was everything I needed it to be! I did not realize how much I NEEDED this book! The line where Gabby says “Like the world’s sprinting in a race I didn’t know we were running, and I’m still looking for my shoes” I literally have said basically that same thing to myself a lot recently so I 100% have felt the same way Gabby is feeling. I am literally Gabby and I loved I was able to connect with her, because everything she needed to hear, I did too!
Every time I read her books I learn more about myself and more about God and I absolutely LOVE IT! God is truly blessing her in her classing to write Christian romance, it is evident on every page! The part about 1 John was absolutely beautiful, no notes, and it SO beautifully illustrated Christ’s love and what real love looks like! This book reminded despite how undeserving we are, just how truly loved we are!
I will NEVER stop reading her books! I loved how even with it being a novella, it did not feel short, yes I read it in a single day, but this story did not feel rushed or unrealistic, it was VERY well written and VERY well paced! Honestly though, it could have been 500 pages and I still would have finished it in one because this book, this story, this couple was SO beautiful! As well as it is written, I do kinda wish it was longer just so I could read about Rhett and Gabby, and I do kinda wish there was an Epilogue because I’m sad I don’t get to see more of their love story unfold, but that just speaks to how absolutely AMAZING she wrote their story! I will now be VERY impatiently waiting for more of her books to be released and I will devour every single one😍
Every time I read her books I learn more about myself and more about God and I absolutely LOVE IT! God is truly blessing her in her classing to write Christian romance, it is evident on every page! The part about 1 John was absolutely beautiful, no notes, and it SO beautifully illustrated Christ’s love and what real love looks like! This book reminded despite how undeserving we are, just how truly loved we are!
I will NEVER stop reading her books! I loved how even with it being a novella, it did not feel short, yes I read it in a single day, but this story did not feel rushed or unrealistic, it was VERY well written and VERY well paced! Honestly though, it could have been 500 pages and I still would have finished it in one because this book, this story, this couple was SO beautiful! As well as it is written, I do kinda wish it was longer just so I could read about Rhett and Gabby, and I do kinda wish there was an Epilogue because I’m sad I don’t get to see more of their love story unfold, but that just speaks to how absolutely AMAZING she wrote their story! I will now be VERY impatiently waiting for more of her books to be released and I will devour every single one😍
February 6, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
This was such a delightful Valentine’s read and I loved it so much! If you’re looking for a cozy, clean romance to read in February, this one is perfect—especially if you start it on February 1st and read one chapter a day leading up to Valentine’s Day. Each chapter represents a day before Valentine’s, which made the reading experience feel extra fun and intentional.
This is a dual POV Christian romance novella set in a small Texas town, and I absolutely adored the characters. The banter and tension were so good, and I found myself completely invested in Gabby and Rhett. I finished the book genuinely wanting more—honestly, if this had been a full-length novel instead of a novella, I would’ve eaten it up just the same.
I also really appreciated the subtle faith elements woven throughout the story, as well as the fact that this book is completely clean—no spice and no cursing—which made it such a refreshing and cozy read. The small-town vibes and side characters added so much charm, and I’d love to see more stories set in this world.
My only small critique is that I wish we could’ve gotten a bit more backstory on Gabby and Rhett to understand them more deeply—but I completely understand that novellas can only go so far, and overall, I think the story was done beautifully.
This book is also part of a four-book Valentine’s Day series with four different authors. So I’m definitely planning to check out the others as well. If you love clean, faith-filled romance with great chemistry and cozy vibes, I highly recommend picking this one up.
Thank you so much, Amber, for the opportunity to be on your ARC team again. I’m so honored to have read this before release.🩷
🌶️:none
🫢:none
This was such a delightful Valentine’s read and I loved it so much! If you’re looking for a cozy, clean romance to read in February, this one is perfect—especially if you start it on February 1st and read one chapter a day leading up to Valentine’s Day. Each chapter represents a day before Valentine’s, which made the reading experience feel extra fun and intentional.
This is a dual POV Christian romance novella set in a small Texas town, and I absolutely adored the characters. The banter and tension were so good, and I found myself completely invested in Gabby and Rhett. I finished the book genuinely wanting more—honestly, if this had been a full-length novel instead of a novella, I would’ve eaten it up just the same.
I also really appreciated the subtle faith elements woven throughout the story, as well as the fact that this book is completely clean—no spice and no cursing—which made it such a refreshing and cozy read. The small-town vibes and side characters added so much charm, and I’d love to see more stories set in this world.
My only small critique is that I wish we could’ve gotten a bit more backstory on Gabby and Rhett to understand them more deeply—but I completely understand that novellas can only go so far, and overall, I think the story was done beautifully.
This book is also part of a four-book Valentine’s Day series with four different authors. So I’m definitely planning to check out the others as well. If you love clean, faith-filled romance with great chemistry and cozy vibes, I highly recommend picking this one up.
Thank you so much, Amber, for the opportunity to be on your ARC team again. I’m so honored to have read this before release.🩷
🌶️:none
🫢:none
February 7, 2026
“I raise an eyebrow, fighting the smile that wants to break free. ‘You trying to bribe me with carbs, Officer Lawson?’
‘Just enforcing the town's hospitality laws, ma'am.’ He nudges the container closer, eyes twinkling with mischief. ‘It's actually a misdemeanor to let a lady go hungry when you've got perfectly good fried chicken available. Section 4, subsection B of the Ashen Mills code.’”
♥️🤍💗
Gabby Wallace returns to her hometown of Ashen Mills after losing her big-city job. She is cynical of love, and she wants to hide from anything Valentine’s Day related. The town of Ashen Mills is small and tight knit, and everyone has an opinion about Gabby Wallace returning to town.
Gabby struggled with letting her walls down, and I always relate to characters like that. It was nice to see her open up over time, and Rhett was the perfect match for her.
Rhett is a police officer that transferred to Ashen Mills while Gabby was gone. I didn’t realize the MMC would be a police officer when I started this book, but it was perfect for this story. I enjoyed reading about his prayers each day, and how he trusted God no matter what. Rhett is very caring and funny, and I enjoy that pretty much nothing phases him. I’m 100% a fan of reverse grumpy x sunshine, so this delivers.
Gabby and Rhett’s interactions are the best. Their lighthearted banter made me laugh throughout the whole novella.
Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine’s Day is a short novella, but it fits in big themes of overcoming fear and accepting grace. It is well worth the read, and I hope everyone enjoys it as much as I did!
-
I received a free arc copy of this book before release. All opinions expressed are my own!
‘Just enforcing the town's hospitality laws, ma'am.’ He nudges the container closer, eyes twinkling with mischief. ‘It's actually a misdemeanor to let a lady go hungry when you've got perfectly good fried chicken available. Section 4, subsection B of the Ashen Mills code.’”
♥️🤍💗
Gabby Wallace returns to her hometown of Ashen Mills after losing her big-city job. She is cynical of love, and she wants to hide from anything Valentine’s Day related. The town of Ashen Mills is small and tight knit, and everyone has an opinion about Gabby Wallace returning to town.
Gabby struggled with letting her walls down, and I always relate to characters like that. It was nice to see her open up over time, and Rhett was the perfect match for her.
Rhett is a police officer that transferred to Ashen Mills while Gabby was gone. I didn’t realize the MMC would be a police officer when I started this book, but it was perfect for this story. I enjoyed reading about his prayers each day, and how he trusted God no matter what. Rhett is very caring and funny, and I enjoy that pretty much nothing phases him. I’m 100% a fan of reverse grumpy x sunshine, so this delivers.
Gabby and Rhett’s interactions are the best. Their lighthearted banter made me laugh throughout the whole novella.
Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine’s Day is a short novella, but it fits in big themes of overcoming fear and accepting grace. It is well worth the read, and I hope everyone enjoys it as much as I did!
-
I received a free arc copy of this book before release. All opinions expressed are my own!
February 9, 2026
A delightful and unputdowable holiday novella.
I knew I had to read this from the time I saw the tag line and it didn’t disappoint. Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine’s Day is a delightful holiday romance that is simply unputdownable. Amber Nicole has a way of writing relatable characters with faith-filled stories that is all heart and soul, and a man who prays for her just makes this all the more beautiful. You can’t go wrong with a grumpy- sunshine, reluctant friendship, small town, he prays for her trope— take your pick, it all fits with a natural flow.
“𝐈 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬𝐧'𝐭 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞. 𝐆𝐨𝐝'𝐬 𝐮𝐩 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐈’𝐦 𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬.“- 𝐑𝐡𝐞𝐭𝐭
I read this in one night and I’ll be sure to re-read it again (I may have raced through reading it because I wanted to finish it before I fell asleep).
I would have liked to see more of why Gabby had her walls up and to see her faith grow more, but ultimately I couldn’t ask for more from a novella—it was a sweet, charming and glitter-filled Valentines romance with faith at the centre.
4.5 All The Pink Glitter Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Read via KU
I knew I had to read this from the time I saw the tag line and it didn’t disappoint. Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine’s Day is a delightful holiday romance that is simply unputdownable. Amber Nicole has a way of writing relatable characters with faith-filled stories that is all heart and soul, and a man who prays for her just makes this all the more beautiful. You can’t go wrong with a grumpy- sunshine, reluctant friendship, small town, he prays for her trope— take your pick, it all fits with a natural flow.
“𝐈 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬𝐧'𝐭 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞. 𝐆𝐨𝐝'𝐬 𝐮𝐩 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐈’𝐦 𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬.“- 𝐑𝐡𝐞𝐭𝐭
I read this in one night and I’ll be sure to re-read it again (I may have raced through reading it because I wanted to finish it before I fell asleep).
I would have liked to see more of why Gabby had her walls up and to see her faith grow more, but ultimately I couldn’t ask for more from a novella—it was a sweet, charming and glitter-filled Valentines romance with faith at the centre.
4.5 All The Pink Glitter Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Read via KU
Review of advance copy received from Author
A small town, grumpy X sunshine, Christian Romcom full of faith and characters steeped in prayer. The first. Book I read by Amber was Dare to Hold and I loved it so much, I couldn’t wait to read this one as well. I thoroughly enjoy her stories of faith and choosing to trust in Him and what he has for our lives.
When Gabby moves back home after being let go at work, she plans to avoid Valentine’s like the Grinch avoids Christmas. She doesn’t expect to meet Officer Rhett, especially before she even makes it back to her parents home. Rhett has chosen a small town life after years as an officer in Houston and has really enjoyed the peace the town offers. They keep running into each other and part of that isn’t on accident.
Part of the Valentine’s Ever After Series but can be read as a stand alone.
Release Day-February 3, 2026
#arcread #cleanromcom #christianfiction #christianromance #trustingGod #valentinesromance #christianromcom #faithbasedromcom #ambernicole #releaseday
**I received an advanced copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
When Gabby moves back home after being let go at work, she plans to avoid Valentine’s like the Grinch avoids Christmas. She doesn’t expect to meet Officer Rhett, especially before she even makes it back to her parents home. Rhett has chosen a small town life after years as an officer in Houston and has really enjoyed the peace the town offers. They keep running into each other and part of that isn’t on accident.
Part of the Valentine’s Ever After Series but can be read as a stand alone.
Release Day-February 3, 2026
#arcread #cleanromcom #christianfiction #christianromance #trustingGod #valentinesromance #christianromcom #faithbasedromcom #ambernicole #releaseday
**I received an advanced copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 7, 2026
♡Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine’s Day♡
My review:
This was such a cute book for Valentine’s! By the first page I loved it! Rhett and Gabby were so sweet! The handwritten note Rhett gave her was so swoony🤭Like, yes please! And their bet was so sweet, and then finding out what Rhett did the day after meeting her was adorable! And oh my goodness his prayers about her! Praying over her and using her name in his prayers?! I need a yearning man of God like Rhett! I didn’t think I would relate to Gabby so much but I did! I think her story healed a little part of me🥹The faith themes were so good and pastor Miller’s sermon on love was so convicting. I highly recommend if you want a sweet Valentine’s romance with yearning and faith! And a man who respects his girl and prays for her 🤭
Ratings:
•4⭐️
•Spice: none
•Language: none
•TW/CW: MC feels unlovable
🩷 insta love
🧸 grumpy x sunshine
🩷 opposites attract
🧸 he prays for her
🩷 police office MMC
🧸 he falls first
🩷 faith based romance
🧸 Valentine’s Day
🩷 small town
My review:
This was such a cute book for Valentine’s! By the first page I loved it! Rhett and Gabby were so sweet! The handwritten note Rhett gave her was so swoony🤭Like, yes please! And their bet was so sweet, and then finding out what Rhett did the day after meeting her was adorable! And oh my goodness his prayers about her! Praying over her and using her name in his prayers?! I need a yearning man of God like Rhett! I didn’t think I would relate to Gabby so much but I did! I think her story healed a little part of me🥹The faith themes were so good and pastor Miller’s sermon on love was so convicting. I highly recommend if you want a sweet Valentine’s romance with yearning and faith! And a man who respects his girl and prays for her 🤭
Ratings:
•4⭐️
•Spice: none
•Language: none
•TW/CW: MC feels unlovable
🩷 insta love
🧸 grumpy x sunshine
🩷 opposites attract
🧸 he prays for her
🩷 police office MMC
🧸 he falls first
🩷 faith based romance
🧸 Valentine’s Day
🩷 small town
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a fun and cute read! Gabby and Rhett story is so lovely, from how they met to how the start to get to know each other. Both characters are human and relatable, with real struggles and personal growth.
I found myself identifying with Gabby in more than one occasion and I appreciated I was able to connect with her and understand her doubts and fears. Rhett was the sweetest, I loved how much he prayed for her and how he patiently pursued her.
Above all, I loved the faith elements woven throughout the whole novella, specially the part of 1 John. This book shows the way God loves us, and what love truly is.
* Thanks the author for this E-ARC opportunity. All the opinions expressed are purely my own.
I found myself identifying with Gabby in more than one occasion and I appreciated I was able to connect with her and understand her doubts and fears. Rhett was the sweetest, I loved how much he prayed for her and how he patiently pursued her.
Above all, I loved the faith elements woven throughout the whole novella, specially the part of 1 John. This book shows the way God loves us, and what love truly is.
* Thanks the author for this E-ARC opportunity. All the opinions expressed are purely my own.
February 4, 2026
I absolutely loved reading Rhett's prayers as he processes through his emotions about Gabby. They are so naturally woven throughout and only made him more real and endeared the story to me that much more.
Oh Gabby. The emotional hurt she carries, the walls she continually puts up. But also longs to not have to.
I absolutely adore and love how Amber writes her books. They are so deep and beautiful and ridiculously swoony in the best ways. I know I will love them and this one was no exception.
This one made me laugh and swoon!! Read this one - read all of Amber's books!!
Rhett's Grocery Shopping 🤣😍🎉
Meddling Family
Cop MMC
Reluctant to Fall
Faith Inspired
Persistent MMC
Small Town
Thank you Amber for a copy of your book. This is my genuine review.
Oh Gabby. The emotional hurt she carries, the walls she continually puts up. But also longs to not have to.
I absolutely adore and love how Amber writes her books. They are so deep and beautiful and ridiculously swoony in the best ways. I know I will love them and this one was no exception.
This one made me laugh and swoon!! Read this one - read all of Amber's books!!
Rhett's Grocery Shopping 🤣😍🎉
Meddling Family
Cop MMC
Reluctant to Fall
Faith Inspired
Persistent MMC
Small Town
Thank you Amber for a copy of your book. This is my genuine review.
Read
February 12, 2026This is just the third book I’ve read by Amber Nicole, but I have to say that she is quickly becoming an auto-buy author for me. Her books have very sweet romance and they’re faith-filled which I love, Gabby Wallace’s story is no exception. I can see myself rereading this fun little novella in the future for sure. Gabby is a very relatable character to me, they’re have been a few years before where I wanted to swear off Valentine’s Day just like her. Rhett is also such a great character! I love how he balances her out, stays patient with Gabby and sticks by her even when she makes it hard. Plus once you add in the small town vibes with all the nosey little old ladies it’s just like a cherry on top.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a fun, light and delightful little novella! Their love story, the whole book, happens over two weeks and I love how they address how it’s fast but also it works.
I loved Gabby and Rhett together! Their banter is fun and he just keeps pursuing her while she tries to keep him at arms length.
The faith elements were lovely and the only thing I wish is that we had more of them!! Would love a full length novel to get into their backgrounds and family more! But as a sweet, Christian Valentines novella, it was great!
Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
I loved Gabby and Rhett together! Their banter is fun and he just keeps pursuing her while she tries to keep him at arms length.
The faith elements were lovely and the only thing I wish is that we had more of them!! Would love a full length novel to get into their backgrounds and family more! But as a sweet, Christian Valentines novella, it was great!
Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
February 10, 2026
Such a cute Valentine’s story! Gabby is down on her luck and moving back home to her small town. She’s protesting Valentine’s day, want’s nothing to do with love or the holiday at all. She just wants to get her life back on track. While back home she meets a new (to her)police officer in town. He is instantly intrigued by her and feels a connection. Rhett Lawson tries to win her over with his charm but is also very mindful of her timing and boundaries and doesn’t push her. This is a sweet, no spice romance with plenty of tension. Kitchen food fight with heat? Yes, please! Not only is Rhett a kind, patient cinnamon roll but he also prays for Gabby throughout the book often which I thought was really sweet. This short novella will not be my last read by Amber Nicole. I cannot wait to get my hands on more of her work! Thank you so much to the author for allowing me an arc!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I LOVED this book!! It filled my heart with so much love and happiness I didn’t want to put it down! Rhett is the sweetest small town cop and Gabby is the grumpy Valentine’s hating girl who is determined to skip the whole holiday. The way their love developed was so sweet and shows how God will bring two people together even when the time doesn’t feel right. I love how the books theme was to show love the way God shows us love and that’s exactly how it ended and I believe that’s how we all should love! 5 stars and another amazing book by Amber Nicole!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I finished this little Valentine's Day romance in one sitting. I really liked it was just enough sweetness and Gabby had lots of sass that worked with Rhett's sweet personality. I am glad I was able to read this fun little romance. Also I liked how the author had prayer and a personal relationship with Jesus in the story.
4.5, only because I wish it could have been a little longer.
I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
4.5, only because I wish it could have been a little longer.
I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 5, 2026
That was an incredibly powerful read. Rhett and Gabby had my heart.
A quote that stands out is this:
Maybe you choose to love, and safety comes
from the choosing.
I loved that the characters felt real in their flaws and Jesus was present on each page. Amber did not shy away from proclaiming her faith. Valentine’s Day has never seemed more delightful. Love is a verb, not a noun.
I aim to see people, serve quietly, and speak life. The pastor was so poignant about the way he put it. It was really lovely. I’m thrilled with Gabby and her story!
A quote that stands out is this:
Maybe you choose to love, and safety comes
from the choosing.
I loved that the characters felt real in their flaws and Jesus was present on each page. Amber did not shy away from proclaiming her faith. Valentine’s Day has never seemed more delightful. Love is a verb, not a noun.
I aim to see people, serve quietly, and speak life. The pastor was so poignant about the way he put it. It was really lovely. I’m thrilled with Gabby and her story!
February 12, 2026
I absolutely loved this Valentine’s novella! This is part of the Valentine’s Ever After series. Each story is a standalone that takes place during the season of love.
Speeding back into town, Gabby gets pulled over by Officer Rhett Lawson. He’s the new cop in town and annoyingly handsome. Even though she is trying to hide from love, Rhett keeps showing up, refusing to give up on her. Will she stop running and give in to love?
I loved Rhett and Gabby! While their insta-love story is quick, it hits all the marks! This is such a beautiful story where both main characters felt so real and relatable. Gabby has a hard time opening up to love and realizing that she does deserve a real chance at love. I loved watching her grow and heal from past emotional baggage. The theme of love is written so beautifully. Rhett is such an amazing example of selfless love. I love that he continues to show up even when it isn’t easy. I absolutely loved the faith elements especially Rhett praying for Gabby!
If you love warm, faith-filled and heartfelt romances, then be sure to pick this one up! You won’t regret it!
Thank you to the author for the copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
Speeding back into town, Gabby gets pulled over by Officer Rhett Lawson. He’s the new cop in town and annoyingly handsome. Even though she is trying to hide from love, Rhett keeps showing up, refusing to give up on her. Will she stop running and give in to love?
I loved Rhett and Gabby! While their insta-love story is quick, it hits all the marks! This is such a beautiful story where both main characters felt so real and relatable. Gabby has a hard time opening up to love and realizing that she does deserve a real chance at love. I loved watching her grow and heal from past emotional baggage. The theme of love is written so beautifully. Rhett is such an amazing example of selfless love. I love that he continues to show up even when it isn’t easy. I absolutely loved the faith elements especially Rhett praying for Gabby!
If you love warm, faith-filled and heartfelt romances, then be sure to pick this one up! You won’t regret it!
Thank you to the author for the copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely adored this novella! Rhett and gabby were so cute together and I loved seeing them grow closer! The structure of this book was awesome and it was cool to have it split up by days and to have both the female and male pov, something I wished more books had! Rhett’s prayers were so sweet and he was such a good, light hearted, sweet mmc!
Thank you for the arc and everyone be sure to pick up a copy!
Thank you for the arc and everyone be sure to pick up a copy!
February 11, 2026
Gabby Wallace Skips Valentine’s Day was a cute small town, Christian, grumpy/sunshine novella. The small town vibes were chefs kiss, the grumpy/sunshine was so great, with Gabby being the grumpy, while Rhett is the sunshine, as Gabby described him in the book, straight out of a Hallmark movie. The Christian elements were absolutely perfect, seeing Rhett’s prayers was amazing, and the sermon at the end spot on perfection. This is definitely a must read for everyone!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews